Definition
An automatic braking system mode, armed before takeoff, that applies maximum wheel braking automatically if the takeoff is rejected. The system typically activates when the throttles are retarded to idle above a set groundspeed (often around 85 knots), commanding full brake pressure without pilot input on the brake pedals.
Plain English
A setting the pilot turns on before takeoff that tells the airplane: if we abort the takeoff, slam the brakes on hard automatically. The pilot doesn't have to push the brake pedals — the airplane does it for them the moment the throttles come back to idle at speed.
Context Anchor
Used during cockpit setup, takeoff briefings, and rejected takeoff procedures on airplanes equipped with automatic braking systems.
Why Pilots Care
It ensures the shortest possible stopping distance during a rejected takeoff, reducing the risk of a runway overrun.
Intuition Check
RTO auto-brakes do not decide whether to reject a takeoff. The crew starts the rejected takeoff; the system helps apply braking after that action and only if its conditions are met.
Example Sentence 1
Before lining up, the captain armed RTO auto-brakes and confirmed the green light on the panel.
Example Sentence 2
After calling abort, the RTO auto-brakes engaged and brought the airplane to a stop within the remaining runway length.